Super Waterproof Matches

These waterproof matches are easy to make and can be used in so many situations. Keep a bunch around the house, at work, and in your car for emergencies. They can be made for very little money and last indefinitely.

Shopping list:

1 box - Strike anywhere matches (get these from your local 99 cent or dollar store).

Wax - Paraffin works best

String - I used floss but any thread or light string will work

Tissue paper - Kleenex or toilet tissue works great

Ziploc baggies or prescription medicine bottles.

Step 1: Step 1 - Prep Your Matches for Dipping

1. Take a few matches and bundle them together.
2. Wrap a small piece of tissue paper around the heads of the matches so they are covered.
3. Tie the matches together with the thread so the tissue is securely covering and attached to the matches.
4. Make as many of these as you have energy or supplies for.

Step 2: Step 2 - Make Your Matches

1. Melt wax in an old pot or wax vessel. Boil a pot of water and place the wax receptacle inside the water to melt it otherwise you will burn the wax and make a huge mess. We do NOT want this result.
2. Once the wax is completely melted in your container, place all the matches in the wax and coat thoroughly.
3. Remove your matches with a spoon, ladle, (or my favorite and cheap alternative) wood chop sticks, and set on a piece of wax paper aluminum foil, or pie plate to cool. You can also drop them in cold water to solidify them faster (this will also prove that they are water proof!)
4. Once dry and cool, place them in zip lock baggies or other container for storage. An old prescription medicine container also works great for this use.

Step 3: Step 3 - Use

1. Take your matches and peel the very tip of paper and wax back away from the tip of the matches to expose the striker surface. Be sure to leave the paper intact and attached to the match bundle.
2. Strike the match on a rough surface or use your finger nail to light the end.
3. The tissue will act as kidling and the wax will insulate and slow the burn of the matches. Having 3 together will also make a hotter fire and allow for faster lighting of your kindling when trying to light a camp style fire. You can also make single match versions for smaller fires such as candles.

You have now got yourself matches for the next campout or emergency, that should stand up to wind and rain.

If you liked this Instructable, please vote for it in in the Survival Contest.